A full day of pedal-powered adventure is set to take over Historic Folsom on Saturday, May 2, as the annual Folsom Pedal Quest returns alongside the crowd-favorite Balance Bike Bash, bringing riders of all ages together to kick off Bike Month in a big way.
The free, family-friendly event transforms the Historic District into a hub of activity from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., inviting participants to explore the city’s expansive trail system through a series of self-guided rides while also offering a dedicated space for the youngest cyclists to build confidence and have fun on two wheels.
At the heart of the event is the Folsom Pedal Quest, a choose-your-own-adventure style ride designed to highlight the connectivity and accessibility of Folsom’s paved bike paths. Riders can select from routes ranging from 1.5 miles to as long as 30 miles, all beginning and ending in Historic Folsom, making the event accessible to families, casual riders, and experienced cyclists alike.
Participants will check in during the morning hours before heading out on their chosen route, collecting stickers at rest stops along the way. Those stickers can then be turned in for raffle entries upon returning, adding an interactive and rewarding element to the ride experience.
While the Pedal Quest caters to riders of all skill levels, the Balance Bike Bash ensures even the littlest participants have their moment to shine. Designed specifically for children ages 3 to 6, the Bash takes over a closed portion of Sutter Street, creating a safe and engaging environment for young riders on balance bikes.
The course is anything but ordinary, featuring playful obstacles like a bubble wrap “rock garden,” mini rumble strips, and pool noodle tunnels that encourage kids to develop balance and control while enjoying a lively, social atmosphere.
Races for the Balance Bike Bash begin at 9:30 a.m. and run every 30 minutes through noon, with each session limited in size to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Between race times, kids can continue riding the course, allowing for plenty of time to practice and play.
The combined event is part of the region-wide “May is Bike Month” initiative, aimed at encouraging more people to get out and ride while promoting healthy, active lifestyles and community engagement.
Participation in both the Pedal Quest and Balance Bike Bash is free, though registration is encouraged as space is limited, particularly for the younger riders’ race sessions. The event is capped at approximately 500 total participants for the Pedal Quest portion.
Whether it’s a family outing, a solo ride through scenic local trails, or a child’s first experience navigating a bike course, the Folsom Pedal Quest and Balance Bike Bash offer something for everyone, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Historic Folsom.
Registration and additional event information can be found atwww.folsompedalquest.com.
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